Anyone with experience with Riding for the Disabled?

bryngelenponies

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So whilst at university I'm considering volunteering for my local riding centre. I miss my ponies so this seems like a good idea. The riding centre is also a Riding for the Disabled centre so I would be required to help with that aspect as well. I'm just curious whether anyone on here has nay experience with them. Thanks in advance for any help :)
 

miss_c

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I used to help at the local RDA - LOVED every minute of it. I led a little boy with downs syndrome who was one of the lovliest children I have ever had the joy of working with.
 

Spudlet

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Yes:)

I used to volunteer down in London one night a week, doing a 1-2-1 lesson. It was very rewarding. I do miss it, and I often wonder how the little boy I led for is getting on! He was autistic, and he loved his rides. He was totally fearless and had amazing balance, although he would never take the reins (well, why would he when he had minions to do that for him):D It used to be a challenge to see if the instructor and I could run fast enough to get a few strides of canter out of the ponies for him:D
 

Rachaelpink

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Yes, I too enjoyed it and it started off my interest in working with children with learning disabilities, which is what I have done for a few years now. I didn't lead anyone in particular though, just whoever needed assistance.
 

bryngelenponies

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I'm also going to be in London, perhaps it's the same place. I am looking forward to it- a family friend is mentally handicapped and he used to love going horse riding so I hope that I can give even a little bit of enjoyment to these people. I was just wondering whether there were any special skills I need for it? I have worked in a riding school before and of course have my own horses but was curious as to whether the RDA aspect of things would require any more specialised skills?
 

Rachaelpink

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I wouldn't really say so, apart from just being aware of whatever disability they have so they may need instructions repeating or more help with certain things.
 
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